OK well there are two questions here that I get asked alot:
1.) How can I improvise on scales/modes?
The best way to simply improvise is to get a Drum Machine, or something that keeps a beat, like a metronome. As you practice, you won’t e dependant on a drummer, or soeone who will have to keep the beat for you.
So in essence, the trick to improvising is “If you keep doing what you’ve always done, then you’ll keep stuck in that same rut you keep getting in.”
OK so here it goes: To work on improvising, simply play different genres of music. I’ve realized that when people begin to hit their ‘peak’ or a ‘writer’s block’ its simply because their stuck inside a box.
So if you play Guitar, then start playing Piano. If your in a folk band, then start taking up Death Metal. If all your songs are in the Key of A, then write one in the Key of C# minor.
Most beginner players usually are stuck on the Pentatonic Scale or another scale spreading over 4 frets. I was, too. So the way I defeated it was I ‘stretched’ the guitar. Below is a picture showing every Mode and scale in C major. To simply play in a different key, just slide the scale over to its appropriate notes:
Notice how all the notes and scales literally ‘bleed’ into each other. They connect and create an entire playing area over the instrument.
2.) How can I play certain keys of different modes like “C” Ionian or “D” Ionian?
Playing a mode in different keys is simply finding out the degree of the scale, and then finding out the root. So a C Phygian is in the key of Ab. Because Phygian is the 3rd mode, so the second would be Bb Dorian, which goes down to Ab Ionion.
So whatever key your in, take a minute and think of which modes might work. Here’s the notes on the guitar, referring to only the naturals. Notice there are no sharps and flats:
So remember, when you go to break the mold, you are broadening your musical horizons. And when you know better you do better. Break from the easy way out of doing what you’ve always done. Apply these scales, modes, and more, and watch your playing, song writing, and general understanding blossom.
Hope this helps!
-Walt
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